Ethernet Controller Query

[NMCK]

Hello,

I have a p9x79 PRO motherboard which has a 82579v gigabit Ethernet controller on it.

Does this mean I can plug in an Ethernet cable from it to the router and it will connect to the internet, or does it have to go through a switch or is it just for LAN use.

I am a noob when it comes to networking so can someone help me out?

The controller also does not have any drivers, well I cant find any, anywhere! (I'm running windows 7 Ultimate)

I've tried intels generic driver install thing and the disc that came with it but it said I don't have any controllers on board.

Any help would be much appreciated,

Thanks

 

[Phemo]

Yes you can plug it straight into any Ethernet device including your router and it will work fine.

For your Windows 7 drivers, look here:

http://downloadcenter.intel.com/Detail_Desc.aspx?agr=Y&ProdId=3299&DwnldID=18713&ProductFamily=Ethernet+Components&ProductLine=Ethernet+Controllers&ProductProduct=Intel%C2%AE+82579+Gigabit+Ethernet+Controller&lang=eng

Your motherboard has the same Ethernet controller as my motherboard and those are the drivers I'm using too.

 

[PistolPete]

I've tried intels generic driver install thing and the disc that came with it but it said I don't have any controllers on board.

Make sure they are enabled in the BIOS.

 

[ots3go]

Does this mean I can plug in an Ethernet cable from it to the router and it will connect to the internet, or does it have to go through a switch or is it just for LAN use.

Firstly, your router probably has an inbuilt switch. Most consumer units feature a four port switch that's integrated with the router.
A switch being connected to a routing interface means multiple devices can be routed.

If we're talking a router which is a router and a router alone, then it would work but you'd be the only device connected to that routing interface.

Both of the above examples create a network that's local, so a LAN (Local Area Network).